History

History fires pupils’ curiosity about the past in Britain and the wider world. At Thameside, pupils learn about how the past influences the present, what previous societies were like and what beliefs and cultures influenced people’s actions.

We aim to bring history to life by immersing children in realistic experiences both in school and on exciting educational visits linked to our topic areas. Our History curriculum and programme of study is designed to ignite children’s curiosity about the past through hands-on experience wherever possible.

We are determined that alongside historical knowledge there is also a focus on the development of specific historical skills. High quality history teaching should equip pupils to ask perceptive questions, think critically, weigh evidence, sift arguments, and develop perspective and judgement.

History at Thameside Primary covers the knowledge and skills outlined in the National Curriculum through broad, challenging and inspiring topics. Subject overviews and ‘Learning Journeys’ plans ensure coverage of both the required knowledge and the subject specific skills. Our history curriculum provides opportunities for pupils to explore their own identity, for example, through local history units.  Wherever appropriate, cross curricular links are exploited, particularly links with Geography, British Values and SMSC.